Atlanta Hawks guard CJ McCollum delivered 32 points, igniting a furious fourth-quarter comeback that stunned the New York Knicks 107-106 on Monday night, evening their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series at 1-1.
The Knicks entered the final frame with a commanding 20-point lead, poised to seize a 2-0 advantage and firm control of the matchup. New York had dominated early, building on their Game 1 victory of 113-102 behind Jalen Brunson's 28 points and Karl-Anthony TownsPlayer·Karl-Anthony Towns' 25, including 19 in the fourth. But Atlanta flipped the script with relentless execution, outscoring the Knicks decisively in the closing period to snatch home-court momentum away from Madison Square Garden.
McCollum, wearing No. 3 for the Hawks, proved the catalyst in the rally. His efficient scoring pierced New York's defense, powering a surge that exposed the Knicks' late-game fragility. Building on his Game 1 output of 26 points, eight defensive rebounds, and one offensive board, McCollum elevated his play when it mattered most, showcasing the clutch scoring that has defined his playoff pedigree.
New York's collapse unfolded as their stars faltered under pressure. Brunson, who tallied 31 points overall, cooled off dramatically in the fourth, connecting on just 3-of-12 shots. OG AnunobyPlayer·OG Anunoby contributed 24 points earlier, with support from Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and Jordan Clarkson in Game 1, but the bench sputtered and turnovers mounted—18 in total—to hand Atlanta the edge. The Knicks' inability to close out a winnable contest amplified questions about their poise in high-stakes moments.
Atlanta's resurgence extended beyond McCollum. The Hawks drained threes at a blistering clip and maintained paint presence, turning a potential series deficit into even footing. This victory marks one of the largest fourth-quarter deficits overcome in recent playoff history, underscoring the Hawks' offensive firepower and resilience after dropping Game 1.
With the series tied, attention shifts to Game 3 in Atlanta on Wednesday. The Knicks, still viewed as series favorites by oddsmakers, must regroup on the road to reclaim dominance. For the Hawks, McCollum's heroics signal a dangerous momentum swing, intensifying this Eastern Conference clash as both squads vie for advancement amid a grueling playoff bracket.
Karl-Anthony Towns (L) of the Knicks blocks Zaccharie Risacher of Atlanta. (Agencia EFE/IMAGO)
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